It is a pity that the glorious news that Kerala has won the first place for governance excellence for the fourth time in a row has drowned in political controversy. The award is given by the Public Affairs Center, Bangalore, after objective evaluations. The states were divided into two categories according to size.

Kerala is one of the eighteen states with a population of over 20 million. States with a population below that comes under the category of smaller states. Apart from these, the Union Territories were given special consideration. Former Chairman of ISRO Dr. Kasturirangan-led Public Affairs Center ranked each state on the basis of administrative excellence based on specific criteria.

The rankings were based on the development index stipulated by the Cntral government. Good governance has enabled Kerala to be at the forefront of sustainable development and overall growth. It is commendable that this achievement has been sustained despite many obstacles. Kerala is followed by three southern states, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.

Goa ranks first among small states. Delhi is at the back. This is the fourth consecutive year that Kerala has topped the list in governance excellence.

Even minor flaws in the work of departments that deal directly with the people often provoke public outrage against the government. Police and Revenue and Local Government officials, who try to force their will down people’s throat, are often at the forefront among people that brings bad name to the government. Delays in getting service are the biggest challenge that ordinary people always face. Here again, the attitude of the officials is very important.

There are a lot of volunteering officers who are ready to serve always. It due their excellence that government activities are carried out smoothly. Transparency in governance has been instrumental in speeding up governance and preventing corruption. Making administration of more departments online has also facilitated smooth and hassle-free rendering of services. Steps need to be taken to ensure that they are available without disruption. Ration distribution with the help of online facility going haywire is an example of the disruption.
Any malfunctioning is said to be the villain in the story. Why is not possible to correct the error, despite the rich experience administration enjoys?